Phumelele Mthethwa
Tokoza
Summary
Senior Research & Development Technologist with 10+ years of experience in FMCG food and beverage product development. Experienced in formulation, commercialization, regulatory compliance, sensory evaluation, and factory trials. Proven ability to lead cross‑functional innovation projects from concept through market launch while ensuring food safety compliance and cost optimization. Industry experience includes multinational and leading South African food companies.
Overview
14
14
years of professional experience
2011
2011
years of post-secondary education
1
1
Certification
Work History
Research & Development Technologist
The Beverage Company
01.2024 - Current
- Lead product development and optimization projects from concept to commercialization.
- Develop formulations aligned with brand concepts while ensuring regulatory and nutritional compliance.
- Conduct shelf‑life studies, laboratory testing and validation trials.
- Develop packaging specifications and ensure compliance with food labelling regulations.
- Collaborate with supply chain, quality and manufacturing teams to improve processes and reduce costs.
Research & Development Technologist
Rich Products Corporation Africa
01.2019 - 01.2024
- Supported development of new food products and provided technical expertise to cross‑functional teams.
- Conducted market and technology research to support innovation initiatives.
- Managed product technical documentation including Product Data Sheets.
- Conducted sensory evaluations, shelf‑life studies and competitor benchmarking.
Food Technologist
RCL Foods
01.2017 - 01.2019
- Managed food safety documentation and verified factory compliance with FSMS requirements.
- Conducted GMP audits and traceability studies.
- Supported regulatory audits including Halaal, Kosher, GDARD and DAFF.
Acting Laboratory Supervisor
PepsiCo
01.2015 - 01.2017
- Supervised laboratory operations and ensured compliance with FSSC 22000 and AIB standards.
- Managed LIMS and SAP systems and trained laboratory staff.
- Investigated quality deviations and implemented corrective actions.
Laboratory Technologist
PepsiCo
01.2012 - 01.2015
- Conducted analytical testing to ensure products met safety and quality specifications.
- Operated analytical equipment including pH meters, titrators and moisture analysers.
- Maintained laboratory calibration schedules and testing documentation.
Education
Advanced Diploma in Adaptive Leadership - Business Management
Boston City Campus
Alberton, South africa 03.2026 - 03.2026
National Diploma in Food Technology -
Cape Peninsula University of Technology
Skills
- Product Development & Commercialisation
- Food Safety Systems (FSSC 22000, HACCP, GMP)
- Sensory Evaluation & Shelf‑Life Testing
- Regulatory Compliance & Food Labelling
- Packaging Development
- SAP & LIMS Systems
- Process Optimization & Continuous Improvement
- Technical Reporting & Data Analysis
- Cross‑Functional Project Leadership
Certification
- Food Labelling Legislation, FACTS, 01/01/23
- Project Management, Coursera, 01/01/23
- Advanced Project Management & Leadership, Coursera, 01/01/26
- Introduction to Sensory Science, Coursera, 01/01/26
Languages
English
Upper Intermediate
B2
Timeline
Advanced Diploma in Adaptive Leadership - Business Management
Boston City Campus
03.2026 - 03.2026
Research & Development Technologist
The Beverage Company
01.2024 - Current
Research & Development Technologist
Rich Products Corporation Africa
01.2019 - 01.2024
Food Technologist
RCL Foods
01.2017 - 01.2019
Acting Laboratory Supervisor
PepsiCo
01.2015 - 01.2017
Laboratory Technologist
PepsiCo
01.2012 - 01.2015
National Diploma in Food Technology -
Cape Peninsula University of Technology